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Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Normally we're not newshounds here at I'll Eat You, but today I stumbled into a scoop. So, Item! The Philadelphia outpost of Le Pain Quotidien, the Belgian chain of ritzy bakeries, is slated to open next Monday, January 17. Pictured above is a pain au raisin that was scored by popping in during the training sessions that are currently happening in the spot on Walnut between Broad and 15th. We found it nice and flaky, with great flavor, though a slightly wetter texture than we would expect out of the iconic pastry. Still, this should be a fine addition to the neighborhood and I look forward to trying out the rest of their menu. Between this and the recently-opened Chipotle down the block, hey, if we're going to have chains in Center City, we might as well have some quality ones.

UPDATE [1/17 8:25 AM]: Looks like we might have gotten punked by the lady we talked to! Walked by just now and the "training in progress" sign is still up. There's still a chance it will open today, but according to Foobooz it could also be later this week.

UPDATE 2 [9:45 AM]: They are indeed open ... and everything is free! Just stopped in to check it out. The space is rustic and inviting, with lots of exposed brick behind the counters, a large main dining area, and a more secluded area off to the side with one large table and a few smaller ones. Scored a pain au chocolat, which had a dynamite texture and structure, even if it was a little sparse on the chocolate. Strangely, no straight almond croissants! Here are some pix:

UPDATE 3 [12:20 PM]: Show's over, Shakespeare ... LPQ has closed its doors for now and it looks like the big giveaway is over.

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Welcome to I'll Eat You!!

I'll Eat You is written by Lauren and her husband Paul. Lauren bakes and makes messes, Paul cooks and is tidy. Lauren likes recipes, cookbooks, and takeout. Paul likes improvisation, drinking Scotch, and eating at home. They both love to create in the kitchen (but not always at the same time), make meals from scratch, and hang out with Oliver, the scrappy little dog made from spare parts. Lauren and Paul are based in Philadelphia, PA. Contact them at illeatyoublog@gmail.com.